Join clean campaign SIR – With just a few months until the next local elections it has become clear that my opponents in Baildon are intent on fighting a petty campaign of personal insults and dishonest claims.

However, just like the last election, where I fought and won against the odds, I will be making a ‘clean campaign’ pledge. I do not plan to lower myself by engaging in the mudslinging my opponents are hoping will stick, and if it results in yet another Conservative being elected, then so be it.

In the end, this kind of childish and amateur politics is neither respected nor believed by a well-educated electorate, or the hundreds of fellow volunteers that are required to make a competitive and thriving local democracy.

So, I challenge my opponents, and politicians across the city, to abandon these flawed tactics that have become so typical lately, and help to rebuild trust in the political system.

For a change, why not just let voters hear an honest account of your principles, and your achievements in public office?

I realise this is a big ask.

Ian Lyons, Liberal Democrat Town Councillor (Baildon East), Cliffe Avenue, Baildon